Big South Fork 

About Big South Fork

Located at Kentucky/Tennessee borders near I-75, Stearns is the gateway to the natural wonders of the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. Once heavily worked for its abundant natural resources, the Big South Fork's fantastic natural geological formations are again blanketed by lush vegetation. This vast wilderness stretching into Tennessee for a total of 113,000 acres is an outdoor lover's paradise, with a variety of recreational opportunities.

The terrain is the rugged, mountainous forestland of the Cumberland Plateau. It is bisected by a deep gorge carved by the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River (Class I-IV). The Big South Fork River is rated one of the 10 best whitewater rivers in the U.S. Some rapids, such as Angel Falls and Devils Jump, should always be portaged.

There are 150 miles of marked hiking trails in the Big South Fork. Numerous overlooks offer breathtaking views of the rocky gorge and cascading river. Backcountry Permits are required for anyone camping in the backcountry. If you have questions about backcountry permits, call 423-569-9778.. Trail information and maps are available at the visitor center at Bandy Creek. Park Headquarters - (423) 569-9778

The Big South Fork is located on the Kentucky/Tennessee boarder in the Daniel Boone National Forest. It can be accessed from interstate 75 at several locations. The area is most easily reached by car.